SEO Image Optimization Tips

We all know the saying, a picture is worth a thousand words.  Well, in SEO, I like to say, a picture is worth a thousand visits.  Obviously, just like a thousand words, it’s not guaranteed that you will get a thousand visits per picture, however, an optimized image can help you gain more traffic.  Images show up in Google just like a page will for specific keywords.  Use these three image optimization tips to help assure it is being done right.

Proper File Name

If you are using images that you have taken with your own camera, chances are that when they are imported to your computer your file name looks a little like this “NC-1234567”.  If you are good at re-naming your images right away, then you are at least ahead of the game.  I personally only name the ones that I am loading to the web.  When naming your file, be sure to use keywords within your file name.  Also, use dashes (-) instead of underscores ( _ ).

Image Alt Text

The alt text is the “alternate text” that is used in place of the image.  If your image doesn’t load, then this text will at least load.  It is also how Google can “read” and see what your image is about.  Think of the image alt text of the equivalent of a page title.  Keep it short, but be sure to use your keywords within the alt text.

File Size

If the image that you are uploading is 2950 x 1700, it is going to take a long time to load.  This is not good for a user standpoint.  If your page is taking too long to load, your visitor is going to be gone before the page even loads.  This is the age of Google, somebody can hit the back button and be to the next page within seconds.

These are three of the most important tips for optimizing your images.  Implement these on your site for all of your images and you should be seeing your images and site showing up in results in no time.